This 22-hour course is designed as an introduction to insects and their allies in which you will learn morphological and anatomical adaptations, evolution, classification, identification, ecology, social applications, epidemiology and medical applications. Laboratory and field activities include sampling, specimen preparation, and identification investigations.

· Identify terrestrial arthropods to Class by visual inspection.
· Identify insects to Order by inspection, and identify common forms to Family.
· Be able to Identify unknown insects by use of standard taxonomic keys.
· Apply field-sampling techniques and carry out routine insect surveys.
· Make a study collection of insects to learn investigative techniques and identification skills.
· Understand insect adaptation and evolutionary processes.
· Learn the basic internal anatomy of insects, and how it is adaptive.
· Describe the life cycles of important insect groups.
· Understand how insects adapt behaviorally and ecologically.
· Understand how insects affect humans medically, economically and socially.

August 1 – August 31
Meets on Every Thursday from 7PM-9PM
Meets on Sundays (Aug 4,11,18) from 10am-3pm with 1 hour lunch
Registration Fee includes basic mounting equipment.
https://marylandnature.wildapricot.org/event-3353915

$280 NHSM Member
$300 Non-Member

Instructor: James D. Young, PhD

Dr. Young earned his B.S. from SUNY College of Environmental Science in 2002 and completed his Ph.D. in Entomology from the University of Georgia in 2006. After graduating he was hired by Oregon State University to run the Insect ID Clinic and teach classes in Entomology In late 2009 he accepted a position with USDA and is currently a National Specialist in Lepidoptera and is located at the U.S. National Museum.

NHSM Continuing education courses provide a unique opportunity to learn natural science from experts. Taught at an introductory college level, they are open to anyone seeking an introduction to various areas of the sciences as well as those familiar with the subjects who wish to broaden and update their knowledge. The courses also provide an excellent opportunity for motivated junior high and high school students to supplement their current science courses and to help prepare them for further study in these fields at a college level. The courses are appropriate as well for teachers seeking to expand their knowledge.

Courses will be cancelled if a minimum number of students is not met.

Please direct any questions to Bronwyn Mitchell-Strong bstrong@marylandnature.org